SRI LANKA

Small Island, Infinite Stories.

Sri Lanka: Where Every Journey Feels Like Discovery

From the misty hills of tea country to golden beaches, sacred temples, and elephant-dotted plains, Sri Lanka is a compact island that delivers the richness of an entire continent. It’s a place where ancient cities whisper stories of empires past, where lush rainforests hide waterfalls and wildlife, and where vibrant traditions meet tropical serenity. Wander through the ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, witness the sacred rituals at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, or journey through spice plantations and emerald tea fields on the legendary train ride to Ella. Along the coast, colonial towns like Galle, wildlife sanctuaries like Yala, and sun-drenched beaches from Mirissa to Trincomalee offer endless contrasts.

At The Uncharted, we go beyond the surface to craft journeys that immerse you in Sri Lanka’s timeless rhythms — from Ayurvedic wellness in the south to cultural immersion in the highlands, and from whale watching to leopard tracking. With handpicked local experts, eco-conscious experiences, and fully personalized itineraries, your Sri Lankan adventure becomes more than a holiday — it becomes a story worth telling.

Signature Itineraries

Think of our Signature Itineraries as starting points — thoughtfully crafted journeys that reflect the heart of a destination. But these aren’t fixed plans. They’re designed à la carte — to be adapted, reimagined, and personalised to you. In case you want

Build Your Own Itinerary

Pick your experiences. We’ll shape the journey.

Browse through a handpicked collection of unique stays, immersive experiences, and offbeat routes. Add what excites you to your cart — like you’re curating a menu. Once you’re done, we’ll craft a seamless itinerary around your choices.

Your trip. Your tastes. Your pace.

See and Do in Sri Lanka

The Cultural Triangle: Sri Lanka’s Ancient Heartland

Step back in time as you explore the Cultural Triangle — a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that trace the roots of Sri Lanka’s 2,000+ year-old civilization. Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” and wander through the sacred ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where ancient stupas, royal palaces, and vast reservoirs echo with stories of kings and monks. Marvel at the golden Buddhas inside Dambulla Cave Temple, perched on a hilltop overlooking lush plains. This region is a cultural immersion like no other — rich in history, mythology, and spiritual depth, and an essential stop on any meaningful journey through Sri Lanka.

Dambulla Cave Temple
nuwara eliya

Mist-Clad Hills & Tea Country Retreats

Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you glide through Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, where emerald tea plantations and cloud-wrapped peaks create some of the most enchanting landscapes in South Asia. Journey on the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella, hailed as one of the most beautiful rail routes in the world. Discover colonial-era towns like Nuwara Eliya, nicknamed “Little England” for its quaint bungalows and manicured gardens. Tour a working tea estate, trek to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak, and relax in a boutique lodge with panoramic views. Whether for romance, wellness, or soulful retreat, the Hill Country offers serenity and charm in equal measure.

Wildlife Encounters Beyond the Ordinary

Sri Lanka is a wildlife lover’s paradise, offering Big Five-style safaris just hours from the coast. Track elusive leopards in Yala, watch herds of elephants in Minneriya during the Great Gathering (Jul–Sep), or embark on a boat off Mirissa to spot blue whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Visit Udawalawe National Park for intimate elephant sightings, or Wilpattu for off-the-beaten-path adventure. With over 20 national parks and diverse ecosystems, Sri Lanka is one of the few places where you can go on safari in the morning and swim in the ocean by sunset — all with a rich dose of biodiversity and minimal crowds.

wildlife encounters
tangalle beach

Sun, Surf & Serenity on the Sri Lankan Coast

Whether you’re chasing waves or peaceful sunsets, Sri Lanka’s beaches deliver the perfect tropical escape. On the south coast, Mirissa, Weligama, and Tangalle promise golden sands, hip cafés, and laid-back luxury. Go surfing, spot sea turtles, or simply sway in a hammock under swaying palms. For a more rustic vibe, head east to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s surf capital, or to Trincomalee, known for calm turquoise waters and coral-rich snorkelling. The beach season shifts with the monsoons — November to April is best for the south and west coast, while May to September favors the east. Year-round, there’s always a coast calling.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination with a tropical climate influenced by two monsoons. From December to March, the south and west coasts (like Galle, Bentota, and Mirissa) and the Hill Country enjoy sunny skies and cooler nights — ideal for beaches and tea trails. The east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) is best between May and September, when seas are calm and rain is minimal. April and October–November bring transitional weather, with occasional showers but vibrant green landscapes. Temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from 26–33°C on the coast to 15–22°C in the central highlands, while rainfall varies by region and season. Whether you’re after surf, safaris, or serene escapes, there’s always a part of Sri Lanka in season — just pick the coast that suits your plans.

Month-by-month weather guide for Sri Lanka

Best for West & South Coast + Hill Country

This is peak travel season for Colombo, Galle, Mirissa, and the Hill Country. Expect warm days with temperatures between 27–32°C in coastal regions and a cooler 15–20°C in the hills. Rainfall is minimal (50–100mm). Ideal for beach escapes, whale watching, and exploring Ella or Nuwara Eliya. Perfect time for honeymooners and wellness seekers.

climate 1
climate 2

Transitional Month with Heat Spikes

April is hot and humid, especially inland. Coastal temperatures hover around 30–33°C, while the Hill Country remains pleasant. Rainfall starts to increase slightly (100–150mm), especially toward the end of the month. It’s also Sri Lankan New Year, so cultural events and celebrations fill the country with festive energy.

Start of the Southwest Monsoon

The southwest coast (Galle, Colombo, Bentota) sees heavy showers (200–300mm) and rough seas. However, the east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) becomes dry, sunny, and ideal for travel. Temperatures remain warm across the country (28–32°C), with lush landscapes emerging after the first rains. Good time to explore less crowded regions.

climate 3

Dry on the East, Lush on the West

While the southwest remains wet (though not constant rain), the east coast shines. Visit Arugam Bay for surfing, Pasikudah for swimming, or Trincomalee for snorkeling and whale watching. Rainfall varies — 100–150mm in the west, minimal in the east. Hill Country stays lush, and temperatures are steady (26–30°C).

climate 4

Inter-monsoon Period

A mixed bag month. Expect scattered rainstorms across the country (150–250mm), but travel is still possible. Less predictable weather, but landscapes are green and vibrant. Fewer crowds mean good value for accommodations. Average temperatures: 28–31°C on the coast and 20–24°C in the hills.

climate 5

Sri Lanka- Climate Guide

A month-by-month overview of average temperatures (°C) and rainfall (mm)

Location

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Colombo–Bentota

27°C / 60mm

28°C / 75mm

29°C / 130mm

30°C / 250mm

29°C / 370mm

28°C / 230mm

28°C / 145mm

28°C / 120mm

28°C / 230mm

28°C / 360mm

27°C / 300mm

27°C / 90mm

Nuwara Eliya

13°C / 20mm

14°C / 25mm

15°C / 45mm

16°C / 150mm

16°C / 170mm

16°C / 175mm

15°C / 125mm

15°C / 115mm

15°C / 160mm

14°C / 230mm

13°C / 135mm

13°C / 50mm

Ella

21°C / 30mm

22°C / 40mm

23°C / 90mm

24°C / 220mm

24°C / 290mm

23°C / 170mm

22°C / 110mm

22°C / 100mm

22°C / 180mm

22°C / 300mm

21°C / 210mm

21°C / 60mm

Trincomalee

26°C / 65mm

27°C / 40mm

28°C / 60mm

30°C / 75mm

31°C / 80mm

31°C / 40mm

30°C / 40mm

30°C / 35mm

30°C / 75mm

29°C / 250mm

28°C / 315mm

26°C / 160mm

Sigiriya

26°C / 45mm

27°C / 50mm

28°C / 100mm

29°C / 190mm

29°C / 160mm

28°C / 75mm

27°C / 65mm

27°C / 60mm

27°C / 110mm

27°C / 280mm

26°C / 215mm

25°C / 100mm

Anuradhapura

26°C / 40mm

27°C / 45mm

28°C / 95mm

29°C / 160mm

29°C / 140mm

28°C / 70mm

27°C / 60mm

27°C / 55mm

27°C / 100mm

27°C / 270mm

26°C / 200mm

25°C / 90mm